The 29-year-old Smith, who the 49ers took out of the University of Utah first overall in 2005, was sent to Kansas City from San Francisco in February for the Chiefs’ second round choice last month and a conditional pick next spring.

Considering the 2-14 Chiefs were the league’s feeblest franchise with a 53-man roster from Lucifer, it may seem unlikely that Kansas City will be competitive this autumn.

However, playing in the AFC West against porous teams like the Oakland Raiders and San Diego Chargers, head coach Andy Reid and the 6-foot-4, 217 pound Smith could certainly help Kansas City challenge for a playoff berth.

After years of struggles, Smith finally flourished in “The Paris of the West” and led the 49ers to a 13-3 finish in 2011.

Showing his performance wasn’t a fluke, Smith threw 13 touchdowns, against five interceptions, for 1,731 yards while guiding San Francisco to a 6-2 mark before getting concussed in November.
With Colin Kaepernick firmly entrenched as San Francisco’s starter, the 49ers undoubtedly benefited from dealing the former Ute.

However, still relatively young and an established talent under center, Kansas City also improved by acquiring Smith.

In a rarity, the Alex Smith exchange will ultimately prove favorable for both the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs organizations.